Date: May 21, 2018

Jeff Balandran adds advantage to LISD maintenance department

Lockhart Independent School District prides itself on “building a legacy of excellence,” as the school district’s vision statement proclaims. Both students and staff across LISD are expected to operate with high expectations of themselves and each other. Jeff Balandran, HVAC technician for LISD’s maintenance department, is the perfect example of this.

Balandran, a 16-year LISD employee, secured his Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) certification this spring, giving the school district an added advantage in maintaining its facilities for students and staff. He first earned a Refrigeration B license in January, later completing an Environmental Air B license this spring. He tried to secure certification 10 years ago, but he narrowly missed it. Afterwards, he became focused on raising children and working, and many years passed, but he never lost sight of his goal. When he renewed his focus on achieving certification, he diligently studied in early morning, lunchtime, and evening study sessions to prepare for the exams. It paid off for him, and the district is in a better position for it, too.

“I love doing what I do, figuring out what’s not working and how to fix it,” explained Balandran. “It is also an awesome feeling to take care of people.”

Throughout the district, Balandran is well-appreciated for his professionalism and his genuine heart of service. As someone who grew up in the community and attended Lockhart schools, and as the parent three children who are Lions, his dedication is deeply rooted. “Seeing the facilities improve and the district growing is fantastic. I am seeing my kids go to the school I went through,” said Balandran.

“The maintenance department is incredibly fortunate to have Mr. Balandran,” added Director of Maintenance Lee Raspberry. “His certification provides an added level of service in the department to help the entire district. He is always looking to grow his expertise.”

Balandran now has his sights set on earning a license as a journeyman electrician. He is learning alongside Frank Richie, also an LISD maintenance department employee, who has a master’s license as an electrician. The department works intentionally to crosstrain to increase the capacity of the department and enhance service delivery across the district--building a legacy of excellence.